Josh Davis

Joshua Alan Davis, 36, passed away peacefully at home on March 17, 2026, surrounded by family. Though anyone who knew Josh knows he probably would have preferred a little less attention in the moment. True to who he was, even in his final days, he remained strong and courageous until his body could no longer keep up with his spirit.

Josh was born on October 22, 1989, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Greg and Lisa (Myer) Davis. He spent his early years in the Des Moines metro and attended Southeast Polk Community Schools before moving to Odessa, Florida, in 2003, where he attended J.W. Mitchell High School. Eventually returning to Iowa, he built both a career and a life he was proud of.

Josh worked at R&R Realty Group for more than 12 years, where he grew into a leadership role overseeing a team of commercial HVAC technicians. He was known not just for fixing things, but for improving them, always looking for a better, smarter way to work. His work ethic, problem solving mind, and quiet leadership earned him deep respect from those who worked alongside him.

In 2022, Josh was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. For nearly four years, he fought with a strength and determination that inspired everyone around him. But more than that, he lived. He refused to let his diagnosis define his days. Instead, he filled them with passions and projects, often getting out on a dirtbike within days of his treatments.

He discovered a love for trials bikes, riding and competing in events with a focus and grit that mirrored how he approached life. He traveled across the country on dirt bike trips, embracing adventure and the open trails. He worked on his Grandpa Davis's 1949 Chevy and fulfilled a dream of owning a 1965 Impala, just like his Grandpa Myer had. He achieved the career goals he had set for himself, and much more. After more than two years of engagement, he married his best friend, Dollie, on a whim during a small gathering at a Mexican restaurant, a moment that perfectly reflected Josh.

Josh had a deep love for dogs and rarely met one he did not instantly bond with. His own dogs, Bailey and Little Bit, were part of his heart, and he carried the recent loss of his dog Mack with him.

Above all, Josh cared deeply for people. He formed strong, genuine relationships everywhere he went. He was not loud about it, but he showed up, he helped, he listened, and he made people feel valued.

Josh is survived by his wife, Dollie (Pinegar) Davis; his stepsons, Emerson and Leitham Little; his parents, Greg and Lisa (Myer) Davis; his siblings, Jake Davis, Rachel (Brad) Molle, Ryan (Amber) Davis, and Rose Davis; his grandmother, Norma Jean Cole (Dale); his in-laws, along with many brothers and sisters-in-law's, and 21 nieces and nephews as well as many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by beloved grandparents, uncles, cousins, friends, and cherished pets.

Josh will be remembered as one of the strongest people many knew, not just for the battle he fought, but for the way he lived along the way. He showed what it means to keep going, to love deeply, to work hard, and to do what you enjoy for as long as you possibly can.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Heinz 57 Pet Rescue, or another pet rescue organization in Josh's honor.

We all know Josh did not like attention, but he did want a celebration of life so people could come together, share stories, and spend time with one another. One will be planned at a later date.